The 2027 presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has expressed deep sorrow following a deadly bandit attack on a school in Kogi State. The Iluke Bunu community in Kogi State was thrown into grief on Wednesday after armed bandits attacked Government Secondary School, Iluke, killing the Vice Principal, Gani Anifowose.
Attack During WAEC Examination
According to reports, the bandits, disguised in military uniforms, invaded the school while students were taking the WAEC English Language examination. They attempted a mass abduction of students but were resisted by local security personnel and vigilantes, who frustrated the abduction attempt. However, the vice principal lost his life while defending the children.
Abduction of Students
In a further disturbing development, reports indicate that students from three communities scheduled to sit for the English Language WAEC examination have been kidnapped amid the insecurity ravaging the area. This has sparked fresh concerns over the safety of students, teachers, and residents in vulnerable communities across Kogi State.
Obi's Reaction
Reacting via a post on his official X account, Obi said it is very sad that "our children are now pawns in a deadly ransom economy." He lamented that making educational institutions soft targets is a direct assault on the nation's future. According to him, it creates a psychological barrier to school enrolment and worsens Nigeria's out-of-school children crisis, disproportionately forcing young girls out of formal education due to fear.
The former Governor of Anambra State stated that there is nothing more heartbreaking for a nation than being unable to protect its children. He sent his condolences to the family of the late Vice Principal and all other victims of the Iluke attack. "My heartfelt condolences go to the family of the Vice Principal, who lost his life while gallantly defending the children entrusted to his care. May God grant his soul eternal repose," Obi prayed.
